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Where to Get Car Keys Cut It is important to have your car keys cut. This will save you a lot of money at the dealership. It also keeps you from being stranded without a working key. Modern keys include transponders that need to be programmed to function with the vehicle. Your local AutoZone is equipped to replace these keys at a fractional price. What type of key will I require? There are several kinds of keys. The most basic key is the traditional key. It does not include any encryption, and is just a piece metal that fits inside a lock. These keys are commonly found in older automobiles. A double-sided or four-sided key is a more secure option and is easily identified by having two or four teeth on the opposite sides of the blade. These keys are difficult to pick and can help prevent break-ins as they require more strength to open locks. Transponder keys are a second type of key. They have a microchip programmed to start your vehicle. This type of key is less likely to be stolen because the key is only compatible with that particular vehicle. Transponder keys are a little more expensive than traditional or mechanical keys, but they offer added security. Most times, when you need a replacement key the local AutoZone store will have the parts and knowledge to do it right away. Just give them the year of your vehicle, MAKE, and MODEL and they will take care of the rest. Some modern cars have remote controls that need to be programmed into the vehicle's computer in order to work. This requires special software and tools. Many people ask their dealer to get this service, but it is not always necessary. You can also search on the internet for replacement keys/fobs that are available for much less than the price you'd pay at a dealer. Before you purchase make a purchase, you should be aware that these key fobs are hackable, so make sure you use a reliable source. Where can I get a key cut for me? Most auto locksmiths are able to cut standard car keys. To supply you with the right key blank they must know the year of your car, make, and model. They will then cut it on the spot using precision machinery. However, some modern car keys like fobs also have built-in transponder chips which require special programming for the particular vehicle. Home Depot and similar stores may be able to copy these keys, but they won't have the equipment required to copy the chip or program it. A typical process for duplicating keys for a traditional car key involves a person selecting the correct blank and then putting it in place against your existing key to act as an outline. A machine then trace the initial contours of your key to create a duplicate. Bring in your original key if it has any small scratches. These will be incorporated into your new key. Mister Minit stores have the special equipment needed to duplicate most cars. It is essential to know the year and make of your vehicle along with your remote or key so that we can select the appropriate blank for your replacement. Many stores will also assist with the additional step of programming the new key for your vehicle, if it's one with a push button start feature. What equipment do I require? Modern key blades require precise tools to guarantee the highest quality cut required by modern ignitions. Cutting a new car key is much more complex than simply copying an existing key and requires specialised equipment that can be only found at authorised key cutters, locksmiths or hardware stores equipped with the right tools to handle the job. The key fobs on the majority of automobiles sold in Australia come with a transponder, which is programmed to your vehicle. This security feature was introduced in the 1990s to combat the rising rate of car theft in Australia. It has since become standard for all new cars sold in the present. This means that a spare or replacement key needs to be laser cut before being programmed for your specific vehicle which is a lengthy and costly process. The majority of Mister Minit locations are equipped with the required tools and experience to duplicate the key you have. All you have to do is bring your existing key and, if possible identify the year model, make and year of your vehicle, so that we may identify the correct code for programming your new key. If you own a newer car, it could be beneficial to have an extra key cut for your car's push button start that includes the key fob (which can be programmed to the car independently). Most Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a replacement or spare key. You'll need your vehicle key, and, if it is possible the year, make and model of both keys, so that we can determine which key is transponder and then program it to your vehicle. Can I cut my own keys? Many big-box retailers and hardware stores offer key cutting services for a nominal cost. They employ machines that follow the original contours of your key to make an exact duplicate. This method works on older keys that do not have a chip. Modern automobiles require that a key fob be programmed. This is a complicated task and requires special equipment and expertise. Locksmiths are better equipped to handle this kind of job because they have the right equipment and tools. You may also visit a key-cutting kiosk like one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient, however they do not cut all kinds of keys. Keys that are common can be copied, whereas other keys with special features must be mailed in for processing. Make sure that you aren't trying to create a duplicate of a key that has “Do Not Duplicate” on it. You'll need to contact an expert locksmith if this is the situation. A locksmith can be more convenient by visiting your home or work. They can cut a key quickly and reprogram your fob in the event that it is required. This will eliminate the hassle of having to drive to a shop and wait in the line. Dealerships are experts in automobiles however, they are not necessarily experts in keys. The key-cutting process isn't their area of expertise. auto key cutting machine have their own inside technology and mechanics. Dealerships are large corporations that operate under strict policies to maximize their profits. They report to car companies who, in turn, report quarterly to shareholders and investors. This does not help in providing high-quality customer service, especially when it is time to cut car keys. Where can I have a locksmith cut a key for me? You can cut keys at hardware stores and self-service kiosks to copy keys, but the best option is a locksmith firm. They are licensed and experienced, and have the equipment to duplicate the majority of keys. Additionally, they can assist you in programming a new car key fob or transponder chip. The original key is used as a model to cut most standard keys. A blank key is put on the other side, and both keys are moved across the machine's specialized cutter, creating a copy of the original key. For certain kinds of keys, like car keys and key fobs, the process takes longer because they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle. Some keys are marked “do duplicate” to stop copies that are not authorized. This is a security measure. This does not mean the key can't be copied, but it may take longer as a locksmith will have to inspect the key and ensure that it's not altered. Other keys could be restricted, and require proof of ownership before they are cut or copied. This is usually because they have unique mechanical features or have a unique shape and is done to prevent them from being used to steal items or gain access into secured locations. For these specialty keys, you'll have to talk to a local locksmith or visit their website to determine whether they have the equipment and know-how to cut keys. If they do, you should expect to pay a bit more than getting a basic key cut at the hardware store or self-service kiosks, however it will be cheaper and less stressful than replacing the car key that was lost.